Postdoctoral Research Associate in live cell single molecule fluorescence imaging of bacteria

About the role

We are seeking to appoint a talented Postdoctoral Research Associate to study the bacterial Type 9 Secretion System and gliding motility apparatus through single molecule fluorescence imaging approaches. Underpinning genetic and biochemical experiments will also be required. The project will build on our recent work in this area (Nature (2018) 564: 77, Nat Microbiol (2021) 6: 221, Nat Microbiol (2024) 9: 1089, bioRxiv (2025)). You will work in the group of Prof Ben Berks FRS (Oxford Biochemistry) in collaboration with Prof Richard Berry (Oxford Physics).

This full-time fixed-term post is funded by the Wellcome Trust for up to 3 years in the first instance.

The actual starting salary offered will be based on qualifications and relevant skills acquired and will also be determined by the funding available.

About you

You should hold, or be near completion of, a PhD/DPhil in Molecular Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biophysics or related discipline, and should have a background in either advanced fluorescence imaging or molecular bacteriology. You must have substantive expertise in at least two of: fluorescence microscopy and image analysis, particularly in live bacteria or at the single molecule level; programming commensurate with quantitative fluorescence microscopy analysis and single molecule tracking; molecular bacteriology; recombinant DNA methodology including construction of bacterial chromosomal mutations. You will be highly organised with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team and have good communication skills. A good publication record is expected in areas broadly relevant to the project, taking career stage into account. 

What We Offer

Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

The University also runs an enormous amount of social groups and sports clubs for those looking for more than just a great place to work.

Application Process

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via www.recruit.ox.ac.uk and Vacancy ID 182767. You will be required to upload your curriculum vitae and a supporting statement, setting out how you meet the selection criteria for the post, using examples of your skills and experience. As part of your application, you will be asked to provide details of two referees and indicate whether we can contact them now.

For further details, please refer to the How to apply section of the job description, click the 'Apply' button above. Any further enquires may be directed to recruitment@bioch.ox.ac.uk.  

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Monday 17^th November 2025. Only applications received before this time can be considered. Interviews for shortlisted candidates to be held as soon as possible thereafter.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity

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